Kowalski on WDFN: Give credit where it's due

One of the important things about the Lions' three wins this year is who is making the big plays - it's the role players that are stepping up. "You've got to give these guys credit," he tells WDFN-AM Detroit. "They're well-coached, and these guys are sticking together."

And though it may have looked like a mistake through the first three quarters of the Bears game, Killer thinks Mike Martz's persistence in establishing the run had a purpose. "Martz knows that if they want to win with consistency, the Lions have to show that they can run the ball."

As far as the pass blocking, which has been abysmal at times, Killer shows some optimism: "I think they can shore up the pass protection. Benching George Foster was significant (as far as being held accountable). Jeff Backus played better even though he got beat for a sack by Mark Anderson."

And on the other side of the ball, Kowalski points out that the game against Philadelphia - and all the Max Protect blocking they showed - may have been a blessing in disguise because it demonstrated that everyone along the defensive line has to contribute a total effort all the time. "Shaun Rogers is not just stepping up in games, but in practice too. He's not letting up at all. He's got the knee problem, which will be around all year, but I think the Philly game taught them a lesson."

For the record, while fans and media may be skeptical, these Lions truly believe they're a good team. "They're sick and tired of being questioned about wnning," Kowalski says. "They understand what the deal is when you lose, they're getting a little irritated with how people are resonding to (the wins)."